Tustin council approves county animal-care agreement with annual opt-out provisions

TUSTIN — The City Council unanimously approved an agreement with the county to continue animal care services after questions from members about the contract’s renewal and termination language.

Councilmember Fink, who visited the facility, told colleagues the shelter has ample space and strong volunteer and foster programs and said city residents often take animals home the same day. “They’re doing very good on that,” Fink said during discussion, noting the shelter’s volunteer-driven enrichment and fostering efforts.

City Attorney Mr. Kendig explained the contract’s term structure and how either party may end participation. “In essence, yes, it’s a five‑year agreement, but the automatically renewing provision means the parties have the option to opt out in accordance with the section below,” he said. He added that in the county’s case, the county can opt out on 12 months’ notice; the city may terminate for non‑appropriation with 30 days’ notice for that specific reason.

Councilmember Nielsen asked whether outreach or recruitment of other member cities was assigned to a particular party; Mr. Kendig said the agreement contemplates other cities joining but does not assign outreach to a specific party.

After discussion about oversight and scope, council moved and approved the item by roll call. The motion passed 5–0.

The council did not adopt a new advisory board at this meeting but indicated it may revisit options for additional local oversight in the future.